When it comes to finding unique flavors and combinations of seafood, fruits, vegetables, olives, and red meat, Greek food is right up there among some of the best. If you’re in search of authentic Greek cuisine, there are a few things that you should look for. At The Black Olive, we have six things that you can look for when looking for good Greek food in Baltimore.
Rich flavors
There are certain elements of cooking that bring out the flavor of the food on your plate. For instance, the combination of olive oil and lemon juice on flaky fish is a combination that enhances the sweet taste of sea bass. The same combination goes well with lamb to bring out the balanced and robust flavor. In addition to delicious meats, Greek food should be complemented by artichokes, cucumbers, and grapes.
Variety
As you peruse a menu of Greek food, you’ll notice a variety of foods that provide unique flavors and experiences. As a country, Greece is considered a melting pot of cultures and influences of countries and regions that have unique foods in and of themselves. With Italy to the west, Turkey to the east, and the Middle East to the southeast, you’ll find that Greek cooking is inspired by a combination of all of it.
Seafood
Greece is situated on the southern coast of Europe and is bordered by the Mediterranean, Ionian, and Aegean seas. Furthermore, one-fifth of the country is made up of islands that are spread across these three vast seas. To say that Greek food is heavily influenced by this would be an understatement. In fact, it’s a staple. With options like flaky fish, calamari, octopus, and shellfish of all varieties, you can enjoy the savory and unique taste of foods directly from the sea.
Lamb
Lamb is a meat that’s commonly associated with Greek food as it’s unique to the area and doesn’t typically crossover into Italian food. This is because of the rocky regions of Greece that have created a good habitat for sheep and goats that don’t need to graze regularly to thrive. If you like lamb, you can enjoy dishes like lamb chops, lamb meatballs, and braised lamb shank.
Wine
The Mediterranean region is known for producing some of the best wines in the world. This is because the mild climate is ideal for slowly ripening grapes. Additionally, the mountainous region provides perfect terrain to maximize the amount of sunlight vineyards get each day.
Healthy
Mediterranean cuisine is known to provide tremendous health benefits. With the staples like olive oil and seafood, you’ll enjoy many cardiovascular benefits. Olive oil has been shown to reduce blood pressure and inflammation as well as preventing unwanted or unnecessary blood clotting. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that provide many of the same benefits. In addition to healthy oils, Greek food is filled with colorful fruits and vegetables that provide you with vitamins and minerals that promote healthy skin and boost immunity. You can feel good about eating Greek food as it provides you with many health benefits.
Place an order for pickup
Experience Greek food in Baltimore for yourself with The Black Olive. Give us a call today to place your order for pickup. You can reach us at 410-276-7141 or send a message using our contact form if you have any questions or concerns about our menu. We’re your authentic Greek restaurant that serves the best seafood in the area.
